Devices and systems for dynamic foot support

ABSTRACT

Devices and systems for providing dynamic foot support to a user are described. A device includes a heel support shelf, a foot support shelf, and a dampening device that allows relative motion of the heel support shelf with respect to the foot support shelf. When a wearer has on footwear that includes such a device, his or her foot is bent and flexed within the footwear during natural walking motion, thereby promoting blood flow, preventing stress, increasing comfort and reducing pain.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/314,368, filed Dec. 9, 2002; which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/336,679, filed Dec. 7, 2001, which areboth incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to foot supports. More specifically, thepresent invention relates to foot supports that are moveable in relationto applied stresses from a foot.

2. Background of the Invention

Seeking the right level of comfort in selecting footwear has typicallybeen a laborious task. The constant stresses and strains that feet mustendure during a typical day of motion are mitigated in large part by thetype of footwear that is worn. Another important factor in selectingdesired footwear is fashion. Too often, comfort and fashion are balancedagainst one another to select the proper footwear. For example, atypical problem with wearing high heel shoes is that they are highlyuncomfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time, despite thedesirability for their attractive look and fashion appeal.

Unfortunately, the problem of foot discomfort in wearing certain typesof footwear still exists. For example, there is still no feasiblesolution to the problem of foot discomfort caused by high heel footwear.Such high heel footwear causes undue pain for the feet and discomfortfor the calves and legs when worn for more than a short period of time.Moreover, wearers must endure such pain and discomfort for the sake offashion given the lack of any alternatives. Thus, comfort and safety aretoo often sacrificed for the sake of fashion, resulting in pain andpossible injury by the end of a day.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a dynamic mechanism that is incorporated intofootwear enabling comfortable, flexible, and adjustable fit. Themechanism has moving components that move in the direction of generatedfoot stresses thereby cushioning the foot as it goes through naturalmoving motion. Furthermore, the mechanism is adjustable for differingreactionary tensions and heights, thereby decreasing the stresses andstrains that are imparted on the foot during natural motion. The presentinvention is designed to provide safety and comfort while maintaining adesired fashion sense. Furthermore, the mechanism also provides a“spring” in the step of a user wearing footwear incorporating such amechanism. High heel shoes fitted with such dynamic foot supportmechanisms are more comfortable for the wearer, decrease the pain anddiscomfort associated with standard rigid high heel shoes, and decreasethe risks associated with injuries from walking on rigid high heelshoes.

As used herein and throughout this disclosure, the term “footwear” meansany product that is reversibly attachable to one or more feet. Suchfootwear typically includes a strap, buckle, lace, VELCRO (hook and loopfasteners), or other similar means to reversibly secure the footwearonto the foot and to maintain the foot in a substantially stableposition relative to the footwear. Exemplary footwear includes, but isnot limited to, shoes, sandals, boots, inline skates, roller skates, iceskates, ski boots, snowboarding boots, and the like. Other types offootwear are also possible.

As used herein and throughout this disclosure, the term “dampeningdevice” means a mechanism that decreases the stresses that are appliedonto the mechanism. In other words, a dampening device cushions anapplied stress and internally absorbs a portion of it. Exemplarydampening devices include, but are not limited to, shock absorbers,pistons, springs, viscous materials, viscoelastic materials, cushionmaterials, or the like. Other materials may be used in a dampeningdevice as long as such materials enable a force to be decreased whensuch a force is applied to a given pre-determined length of material inthe dampening device.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is dynamic foot supportdevice. The device includes a heel support shelf for supporting a heelportion of a foot, a foot support shelf for supporting a distal portionof a foot, and a dampening device in communication with the heel supportshelf and the foot support shelf; wherein the dampening device allows arelative motion of the heel support shelf with respect to the footsupport shelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a device fordynamic foot support. The device includes a heel support shelf forsupporting a heel portion of a foot, a foot support shelf for supportinga foot, and means for allowing motion of the heel support shelf withrespect to the foot support shelf when a force is applied to the heelsupport shelf.

Yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a systemfor dynamic foot support. The system includes a footwear foraccommodating a foot, and a dynamic foot support platform incorporatedwithin the footwear. The dynamic foot support platform includes a heelsupport shelf for supporting a heel portion of a foot, a foot supportshelf for supporting a foot, and a dampening device in communicationwith the heel support shelf and the foot support shelf, wherein thedampening device allows relative motion of the heel support shelf to thefoot support shelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the dynamic foot supportplatform of the present invention.

FIG. 2 a shows various components of an exemplary embodiment of thedynamic foot support platform of the present invention.

FIG. 2 b shows a top view of a heel support shelf of the exemplarydynamic foot support platform of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 c shows a perspective view of a heel support shelf of theexemplary dynamic foot support platform of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 d shows a perspective view of a front portion of a foot supportshelf of the exemplary dynamic foot support platform of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 3 shows a dynamic foot support platform according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according toanother exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according toyet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 a shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform accordingto another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 b shows an exemplary connector that is used for the dynamic footsupport platform in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 c shows an exemplary connector used to connect various componentsof the dynamic foot support platform in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 d shows a side view of a pivot area of the dynamic foot supportplatform of FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 e shows an exemplary connector that is used for the dynamic footsupport platform in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 f shows an exemplary connector that is used for the dynamic footsupport platform in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 7 shows a partial side view of a foot support platform according toanother exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 a shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 b shows an exemplary connector for attaching the components ofthe foot support platform in FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 c shows an exemplary connector that is used to connect variouscomponents of the dynamic foot support platform of FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 d shows a side view of a pivot area of the dynamic foot supportplatform of FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 e shows an exemplary connector for attaching the components ofthe foot support platform in FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 f shows an exemplary connector for attaching the components ofthe foot support platform in FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 9 a shows a back view of a dynamic foot support platform accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 b shows the connectors of the foot support platform of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9 c shows a side view of the connectors of the foot supportplatform of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 10 shows a back view of a dynamic foot support platform accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a back view of a dynamic foot support platform accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 a shows a side view of a pivot hinge according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 b shows a view along a length of the pivot hinge of FIG. 13 a.

FIG. 14 a shows an exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot supportplatform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 b shows an exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot supportplatform according to another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 15 a shows an exemplary embodiment of footwear with a dynamic footsupport platform according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 b shows an exemplary embodiment of footwear with a dynamic footsupport platform according to the present invention with a heel supportshelf in various exemplary positions.

FIG. 16 a shows an exemplary embodiment of a ski or snowboard boot witha dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 b shows an exemplary embodiment of an ice skate with a dynamicfoot support platform according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows an exemplary embodiment of an inline skate or roller skatewith a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An exemplary device for dynamic foot support includes one or moredampening devices that are used to decrease the magnitude of stressesthat are imposed on a foot during motion. Such a dampening device may bepositioned at or near a heel area of footwear to provide dynamic motionto the bottom side of feet. Footwear with high heels may use suchdampening devices to maintain a relative height advantage while at thesame time providing dynamic motion to the feet to prevent stressesimposed on the feet from high heels. Additionally, such footwear alsoprovides a “spring” to the step of a user as the dampening deviceprovides a reactive force that slightly propels the bottom of, a foot.Consequently, runners or fast walkers can also benefit from the comfortof the present invention. Such dynamic foot support may be incorporatedwithin any type of footwear to provide the wearer a dynamic responsemechanism that decreases stresses imposed on the feet, decreasespossible injuries, increases comfort and promotes health and safety.Optionally, the devices according to the present invention may beretroactively fit into footwear.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform100 according to the present invention. Although dynamic foot supportplatform 100 is presented in a given shape with particular features, thepresent invention is not limited to such an exemplary embodiment. Otherdynamic foot support platform embodiments are possible and are withinthe scope of the present invention. Furthermore, footwear that includessuch dynamic foot support platforms is also within the scope of thepresent invention.

An exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform according toan embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 2. Adynamic foot support platform 200 includes a heel support shelf 220(FIGS. 2 b and 2 c) for cradling a heel end of the foot, a foot supportshelf 230 (FIG. 2 d) for cradling a bottom side of a foot, moreparticularly, the distal toes-end of the foot, and a dampening device210 for absorbing downward pressure on heel support shelf 220. Heelsupport shelf 220 typically is conformed to support a heel of a foot.Foot support shelf 230 typically is conformed to support or cradle partsof the foot distal to the heel. Dampening device 210 adjusts in lengthto conform to different pressures exerted by a foot on platform 200.

Furthermore, dampening device 210 may be easily replaced in a given footsupport platform so as to give the wearer more choices in dynamicreactivity of the footwear. Connectors that secure dampening device 210within a foot support platform 200 may be easily engaged or disengagedto allow the user a quick replacement of the dampening device 210.Different dampening devices 210 may provide different elasticity andreactive forces, thereby providing a range of comfort to a given wearer.The dynamic function of dampening device 210 within dynamic foot supportplatform 200 is explained in more detail below.

Dampening device 210 enables heel support shelf 220 to adjust inposition with respect to foot support shelf 230 by, for example,promoting rotation about a given rotating pivot area. Such a rotatingpivot may be, for example, a pin 235 within a pin-accommodating groove236. Other configurations for the pivot area are possible.

Dampening device 210 links heel support shelf 220 with foot supportshelf 230 via one or more connectors. An exemplary connector used toconnect dampening device 210 to heel support shelf 220 is tubularsnap-fit structure 225, which is on an end of dampening device 210.Tubular structure 225 is accommodated into tubular structureaccommodating area 226 on heel support shelf 220. On the other end ofdampening device 210 is another system of connectors 215 that securelyconnect dampening device 210 to a heel end of foot support shelf 230.Other connector systems can be used. Such other connector systems aredescribed below.

When a pressure is exerted on platform 200 as a result of, for example,a downward motion of a foot during walking, dampening device 210 mayadjust in length. Such changes in length of dampening device 210 resultin changes of the relative position of heel support shelf 220 withrespect to foot support shelf 230 before and after the application ofsuch a pressure. Conversely, when the same pressure is reduced orwithdrawn from the platform 200, then dampening device 210 increases inlength, thereby again changing the relative position of heel supportshelf 220 with respect to foot support shelf 230. Such changes in thelength of dampening device 210 results in a cushioning of the step forthe wearer, which is more comfortable, safer, and less painful for thewearer. The same principles apply to all of the exemplary embodimentsshown here.

FIG. 3 illustrates a dynamic foot support platform according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the present invention. A dynamic foot supportplatform 300 includes a dampening device 310, a heel support shelf 320,and a foot support shelf 330. Dampening device 310 is connected to aheel 336 of foot support shelf 330 via a connector, which may be, forexample, a pivot and bracket configuration 312. An interior bracketsupport 337 may be used to anchor the bracket of the bracketconfiguration 312 securely within foot support shelf 330. Interiorbracket support 337 may be, for example, hard plastic, metal, orsuitable material that can act as an anchor within foot support shelf330. A connector, such as a hinge 340, links heel support shelf 320 withfoot support shelf 330.

Foot support shelf 330 may be in the shape of an elongated,substantially planar surface that supports a user's foot, extending froma toe area to a heel area. Alternatively, foot support shelf 330 may benon-uniform across its length and have grooves or ridges 332 along itsbody for functional or stylish purposes. Other shapes, for example cutouts or geometrical designs, can be used. A layer of protective material350 may be positioned atop of hinge 340 to promote the durability ofhinge 340. Additionally, the layer of protective material 350 protectsthe bottom of a foot from getting injured by contact with the movingmechanism of hinge 340. Layer of protective material 350 may be, forexample, a pad, a tape, a sponge, or other suitable protective material.Furthermore, an interior layer of support material 345 for hinge 340promotes the flexibility of the hinge mechanism while maintainingstructural integrity. For example, the interior layer of supportmaterial 345 may be substantially stiff but with enough flexibility toallow the motion of heel support shelf 320 when an application isapplied thereon.

FIG. 4 illustrates a dynamic a foot support platform 400 according toanother exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Dynamic footsupport platform 400 includes a dampening device 410, a heel supportshelf 420 and foot support shelf 430. Additionally, a layer of lining450 is positioned on top of the heel support shelf 420 and foot supportshelf 430 such that the layer of lining 450 spans across the entirelength of the underside of a foot, from a heel area to a toe area. Sucha layer of lining 450 may be composed of, for example, a cushionedrubber, leather, foam, fabric, rubber, or similar material. Othersuitable materials are possible and within the scope of this invention.A portion of the layer of lining 450 is recessed into the foot platform400 to secure the lining within the heel support shelf 420 and footsupport shelf 430.

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. A dynamic foot support platform 500 includes a dampeningdevice 510, a heel support shelf 520 and a foot support shelf 530.Dampening device 510 is linked to heel support shelf 520 and footsupport shelf 530 through connectors 522 and 512, respectively. Aninternal heel support 562 anchors part of connector 512 to foot supportshelf 530. Internal heel support 562 may be, for example, hard plastic,metal, or suitable material that can act as an anchor within footsupport shelf 530.

A heel pad 580 and a sole pad 581 are used to further cushion each stepas a user walks with footwear that incorporates foot support platform500. Heel pad 580 and sole pad 581 may be composed of, for example,rubber, plastic, metal, or other suitable material or combinationsthereof used for heel/sole pads.

All parts of dynamic foot support platform 500 other than heel pad 580and sole pad 581 may be composed of durable, lightweight materials, suchas, for example, carbon fiber, urethane, plastics, lightweight alloymetals, including aluminum, steel, and titanium, other suitablematerial, or combinations thereof. These materials may be used for anyof the other embodiments shown and described herein. Other suitablematerials are possible, such as hollow hardened steel. Additionally,each component of shoe platform 500, other than dampening device 510,may be wrapped by carbon fiber for increased strength and durability. Atechnique of integrating carbon fiber and metal in the manufacturingprocess may be the well known Bladder Mold Method. In such a method, acarbon fiber may be wrapped around all of the non-critical areas of themetal, the critical areas being the attachment points.

Connectors 512 and 522 are shown in FIG. 5 as threaded retainer pins asan example. Other types of connectors including snap fit connectors,hook connectors, hinges, screw-type rods, or suitable connectors may beused. Rotating pivot 535 is shown as a rod rotating in arod-accommodating slot. Other types of rotating mechanisms can be used,including an indented, perforated, or crumbled region of hard plasticthat allows motion of heel support shelf 520 with respect to footsupport shelf 530 about rotating pivot 535 without sacrificingstructural stability. Optionally, the material properties of a givensheet of material may be altered at a particular region or line toenable increased flexibility in such an altered region or line resultingin creation of, for example, a pivoting region.

A protective cover 570 is positioned across a region extending betweenheel support shelf 520 and foot support shelf 530. Protective cover 570prevents rotating pivot 535 from injuring the bottom of a user's footthat is positioned atop the foot platform 500. A front end of protectivecover 570 may be secured in a protective cover slot 571 in foot supportshelf 530 that allows freedom of movement of protective cover 570independent of any motion of heel support shelf 520 with respect to footsupport shelf 530. Alternatively, protective cover 570 may be glued orotherwise attached to the surfaces of heel support shelf 520 and footsupport shelf 530. It would be apparent to those skilled in the art thatother methods of attachment can be used.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a dynamic foot support platformaccording to another embodiment of the present invention. As dynamicfoot support platform 600 is used, such as during walking, downwardforces of the wearer's body through the feet are exerted onto heelsupport shelf 620, resulting in relative downward and upward motions ofheel support shelf 620. All such downward and upward motions of heelsupport shelf 620 are possible by rotation of an end of heel supportshelf 620 in an arc about rotating pivot 640. This mechanism is alsopresent in the other embodiments shown and described herein.

In use, a downward force on foot platform 600 results in a downwardmotion of heel support shelf 620 in the direction of arrow 601 and arotation about pivot 640 in the arc direction of arrow 603. Any decreasein downward force on foot platform 600 results in an upward motion ofheel support shelf 620 in the direction of arrow 602 and a rotationabout pivot 640 in the arc direction of arrow 604.

A connector 625 is a standard metal pin as an example. It would beapparent to those skilled in the art that other types of connectors canbe used. Connectors 626, 627, 628, and 629 shown in FIGS. 6 b, 6 c, 6 e,and 6 f, respectively, are other examples of connectors. Connectors 626and 627 are press fit connectors that are pressed into a slot (notshown) on the bottom side of heel support shelf 620 to create a tightfit. Different geometries may be used for press fit connectors, such as,for example, a cylindrical head 626 or a spherical head 627. Anotherconnector 628 that may be used is a head with a slot for a pin (notshown), which would be positioned on the bottom side of heel supportshelf 620.

Another connector 629 is in the shape of an incomplete cylinder and isan integral component of dampening device 610. This connector 629 may besnapped or pressed into a slot (not shown) in heel support shelf 620 andis connected to body 632 of dampening device 610 through a neck region631. The widened head of connector 629 provides increased surface areafor distribution of downward forces on dampening device 610, therebydecreasing the stress at any given point on the top surface of connector629. This is one method that strengthens the connection between heelsupport shelf 620 and dampening device 610. Other strengthening methodsare also possible.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cutaway partial side view of a dynamic foot supportplatform according to another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. A dynamic foot support platform 700 has a heel support shelf720 that includes an internal layer of material 721 that increasesstrength and durability while decreasing weight. Layer of material 721may be, for example, a carbon fiber. Other types of material arepossible. An inlaid heel 738 and sole 739 may be composed of materialsthat further promote dampening of each step. Such materials for heel 738and sole 739 include, for example, rubber, plastic, metal, anothersuitable material, or combinations thereof.

Heel support shelf 720 also contains an interior support bracket 730.Interior support bracket 730 has an upper arm 722 that extends from aconnector at a top portion of dampening device 710 to rotating pivot740. A lower arm 745 further extends from rotating pivot 740 into footsupport shelf. The combination of upper arm 722 and lower arm 745strengthens the area around rotating pivot 740, thereby promoting thelongevity of the rotating mechanism.

On the other end of dampening device 710 is an internal support bracket737 that extends from a connector at a bottom portion of dampeningdevice 710. This multiple system of support brackets positioned on eachend of and in connection to dampening device 710 promotes an increase instructural stability of dynamic foot support platform 700 by giving aninternal skeletal structure to the areas of the foot platform 700 wherethere will be stress created from a walking motion of the user. Theincrease in structural stability promotes durability of dynamic footsupport platform 700, thereby increasing the life of footwear thatincorporates it.

FIG. 8 illustrates a dynamic foot support platform 800 according toanother embodiment of the present invention. As dynamic foot supportplatform 800 is put into use, such as during walking, downward forces ofthe body through the feet are exerted onto heel support shelf 820,resulting in downward and upward motions of heel support shelf 820. Allsuch upward and downward motions of heel support shelf 820 are possibleby rotation of an end of heel support shelf 820 in an arc about rotatingpivot 840.

In use, a downward force on foot platform 800 results in a downwardmotion of heel support shelf 820 in the direction of arrow 801 and arotation about pivot 840 in the arc direction of arrow 803. Any relativedecrease in downward force on foot platform 800 results in an upwardmotion of heel support shelf 820 in the direction of arrow 802 and arotation about pivot 840 in the arc direction of arrow 804.

Connector 825 is shown in FIG. 8 a as a press fit connector as anexample. Other types of connectors are possible. Connectors 826, 827,828, and 829, shown in FIGS. 8 b, 8 c, 8 e, and 8 f, respectively, areother examples of connectors that may be substituted for connector 825in FIG. 8 a. Connectors 826 and 827 are press fit connectors that arepressed into a slot on the bottom side of heel support shelf 820 tocreate a tight fit. Different geometries may be used for press fitconnectors, such as, for example, a cylindrical head 826 or a sphericalhead 827.

Another connector 828 that may be used is a head with a slot for a pin(not shown), which would be positioned on the bottom side of heelsupport shelf 820. Another connector 829 is in the shape of anincomplete cylinder and is an integral component of dampening device810. This connector 829 may be snapped or pressed into a slot in heelsupport shelf 820 and is connected to body 833 of dampening device 810through a neck region 831. The widened head of connector 829 providesmore surface area for distribution of downward forces on dampeningdevice 810, thereby decreasing the stress at any given point on the topsurface of connector 829.

FIG. 9 illustrates a rear view of a dynamic foot support platform 900according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Dynamic foot support platform 900 includes a dampening device 910 inconnection with a heel support shelf 920. In the embodiment illustrated,connector 922 is a tight-fit connector. It would be apparent to thoseskilled in the art that other connectors can be used. The other end ofdampening device 910 includes a mount protrusion 913 that isaccommodated into a mount protrusion slot 914 located in a heel portion936 of foot support shelf 930. A retainer rod or pin may be positionedin retainer housing 915, which is perpendicular to mount protrusion 913.Any such rod or pin locks into and secures mount protrusion 913 withheel portion 936. The relationship between mount protrusion 913, mountprotrusion accommodating slot 914, and retainer housing 915 is alsoshown in FIG. 9 b from the opposite view of FIG. 9 a, and in FIG. 9Cfrom a side view of FIG. 9 a. Other connections, protrusion, andmounting mechanisms are possible.

FIG. 10 shows another exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot supportplatform according to the present invention. A dynamic foot supportplatform 1000 includes a dampening device 1010, a heel support shelf1020, and a foot support shelf 1030. Dampening device 1010 is secured toheel support shelf 1020 through connector 1023 in accommodating slot1022, which configuration is shown in FIG. 10 as a press fit connection.It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types ofconnectors can be used. A rotating pivot 1040 enables relative movementof heel support shelf 1020 with respect to foot support shelf 1030 whena force applied to a top side of foot platform 1000 causes a decrease inlength of dampening device 1010, such as during compression.

Dampening device 1010 is secured to a heel area 1036 of foot supportshelf 1030 via a connector, which is shown by example in FIG. 10 as apin 1012 and bracket 1013. It would be apparent to those skilled in theart that other types of connectors can be used. To further increase thestrength of the connection between dampening device 1010 and heel area1036, an internal support structure 1037 is housed inside heel area 1036that anchors bracket 1013 to heel area 1036. Such a configurationpromotes structural stability and the capability of withstanding higherstresses applied to foot platform 1000 without breaking, such asencountered, for example, during rapid walking or running.

FIG. 11 illustrates a dynamic foot support platform according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. A dynamic foot support platformincludes substantially the same general components as dynamic footsupport platform 1000, except the optional differences as described indetail herein. A connector 1122, which secures dampening device to heelsupport shelf has a retaining pin that retains a top protrusion ofdampening device. It would be apparent to those skilled in the art thatother types of connectors can be used.

A layer of support material 1160 spans the length of heel support shelf1120 and foot support shelf 1130. Layer 1160 of material may be composedof carbon fiber, hardened plastic, or other suitable material that addsstructural stability to dynamic foot support platform 1100 and maintainsstrength during dynamic motion. Such a layer of support material 1160may also span across a bottom side of heel support shelf 1120 to protectrotating pivot 1140. Alternatively, such layer of support material 1160may be positioned within the body of heel support shelf 1120, atop heelsupport shelf 1120, or combinations thereof. A pin 1112 secures a bottomend of dampening device 1110 to a retaining bracket 1162. Retainingbracket 1162 is a unitary structure with an upper end having slots forretaining pin 1112, and a bottom anchor that is securely fastened withina heel area of foot support shelf. Having a unitary structure retainingbracket 1162 as shown in FIG. 11 as opposed to multiple retainingbracket structure as shown in FIG. 10 decreases the number of parts, thecost, and the complexity of manufacturing.

The above exemplary embodiments of various foot support platformsaccording to the present invention are shown with a dampening devicepositioned at a particular angle with respect to a heel support shelf.Furthermore, a single dampening device has been shown in each exemplaryembodiment for sake of simplicity. However, other angles and positionsof dampening device are also possible, as well as multiple dampeningdevices. Dampening devices may be positioned in any direction that couldbenefit from a dampening of forces.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the dynamic footsupport platform 1200 according to an embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 12 shows another angle and position of dampening device1210 in foot support platform 1200. Dampening device 1210 is secured toheel support shelf 1220 using connectors as shown and described in theabove exemplary embodiments. However, the bottom end of dampening device1210 is secured to foot support shelf 1230 using a bracket 1250 thatprotrudes from a position that is more internal than the exemplaryembodiments shown and described above. Such position of bracket 1250enables dampening device 1210 to have a different angle with respect toother examples shown and described above.

Furthermore, as with other examples described above, an internal supportstructure 1222 is shown in light shade that extends a length of the bodyof heel support shelf 1220, from a top portion of dampening device 1210,past rotating pivot, and into foot support shelf 1230. For example,internal support structure 1222 may be a metal support wrapped with acarbon fiber to provide additional structural support to the portions ofdynamic foot support platform 1200 that may be in more direct contactwith the forces exerted from the bottom side of a foot.

Other exemplary embodiments of foot platforms according to the presentinvention are shown in FIGS. 14 a and 14 b. In FIG. 14 a, foot platform1400 includes a dampening device 1460 positioned very close to a centerposition of foot platform 1400. Dampening device 1460 is secured betweenbase structure 1401 and heel support shelf 1402. A rod 1410 extendsupwards from base structure 1401 at a back end of foot platform 1400.Rod 1410 is slideably engaged with rod accommodating structure 1420 thatreceives a portion 1430 of rod 1410. When a user is in motion, as whenwalking, downward forces on heel support shelf 1402 cause a downwardmovement of heel support shelf 1402 about a pivot point 1403 such thatrod 1410 is further inserted into rod accommodating structure 1420,thereby resulting in an increased portion 1430 of rod 1410 positionedwithin rod accommodating structure 1420.

Foot platform 1450 as shown in FIG. 14 b is substantially similar tofoot platform 1400 shown in FIG. 14 a, but with the following notedalternative positioning of components. The most external component ofpivot point 1403 on foot platform 1400 is heel support shelf 1402.Alternatively, the most external component of pivot point 1403 on footplatform 1450 is base structure 1401. Furthermore, a rotation guidestructure 1404 guides proper rotation of base structure 1401 in theexemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 14 b. Other embodiments are alsopossible. An advantage of positioning dampening device 1460 very closeto pivoting point 1403 is that dampening device 1460 may be hidden fromview and therefore not have to be exposed prominently on a given footplatform. Hiding a dampening device may be beneficial from an aestheticor safety perspective.

The exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 14 a and 14 b may havealternative relative moving components. In one example, base structure1401 may be relatively static and heel support shelf 1402 moves in anarc relative to base structure 1401. Alternatively, heel support shelf1402 may be relatively static and base structure 1401 moves in an arcrelative to heel support shelf 1402. Other movement mechanisms are alsopossible.

The above exemplary embodiments are described having a standard rotatingpivot in the form of a rotating pin. However, many differentalternatives are also possible as long as they allow for movement of aheel support shelf with respect to a foot platform.

Another exemplary embodiment of a rotating pivot that may be used withthe dynamic foot support platform of the present invention is shown inFIG. 13. Such a pivot may be, for example, a hinge 1300 that includes amechanism that permits locking of hinge 1300 in various positions. Hinge1300 has a generally elongated hinge body 1330 that ends in a pushbutton head 1310, which may be rubber or other suitable material.Interior of push button head 1310 is push button actuator 1320 that isconnected to a push button shaft 1370. A spring 1360 surrounds pushbutton sliding shaft 1370 and is limited to a space between push buttonactuator 1320 and a stationary wall 1340, which can be a notch-toothednut with a hollow core.

A second wall 1350 accommodates the end of push button sliding shaft1370 and is designed to mate with stationary wall 1340. Second wall 1350may be a notched tooth nut. FIG. 13 b shows a side cut view of thenotched areas of walls 1340 and 1350 showing the alternating position ofa tooth 1390 and gap accommodating space 1389 that engages a tooth onthe mating wall. In use, hinge 1300 enables securing a relative positionof a heel support shelf with respect to a foot support shelf, as will bedescribed with respect to FIG. 15.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 15, a shoe 1500 is shownhaving a heel support shelf 1520, a foot support shelf 1530, and a heel1510. Rotating pivot 1540 enables heel support shelf 1520 to pivot withrespect to the rest of the shoe 1500. A top band 1550 and a bottom band1560 are used to secure the shoe to a wearer's foot. Heel support shelf1520 may be in one or more exemplary positions 1501, 1502, 1503, as whena user is walking. A dampening device is not shown in FIG. 15 for sakeof clarity. However, such a dampening device may be placed within footsupport shelf 1530 and hidden from outside view, similarly to thestructure shown in FIG. 14.

Alternatively, shoe 1500 shown in FIG. 15 may not need a dampeningdevice in order to still have range of motion in heel support shelf 1520as long as rotating pivot 1540 is a hinge such as hinge 1300, shown anddescribed with respect to FIG. 13. If hinge 1300 is used as rotatingpivot 1540 in shoe 1500, then the user will have options of the relativeposition of heel support shelf 1520, such as options 1501, 1502, and1503. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 15, a userhas the option of adjusting a shoe to be high-heeled, moderate pump, orrelatively flat, depending on the desired height of heel support shelf1520.

However, without a dampening device, shoe 1500 will not have a dynamicreacting mechanism that senses downward stresses and reacts to itthrough a dampening device to provide reactive upward stresses. It ispossible for given footwear to include both a dampening device and ahinge 1300 as shown in FIG. 13. If both such options are used, then auser will still maintain reactive footwear, but one that is adjustableto different levels of full motion. Other options are possible.

Although the above exemplary embodiments of the present invention aregenerally shown and described using standard footwear, such as shoes andboots, the present invention is not limited to such use and may be usedin other footwear. FIG. 16 a shows an exemplary embodiment of a ski orsnow board boot 1600 incorporating a dynamic foot support platform ofthe present invention as shown and described above. Boot 1600 includes afoot-securing component 1620 that is connected to a dampening device1610. A locking base 1630 is also connected to the foot-securingcomponent 1620 and the opposite end of dampening device 1610.

In use, as a wearer glides down a mountain slope, various moguls andbumps cause relative upward and downward stresses on the foot strappingcomponent 1620 of boot 1600. These transferred forces are then sensed bydampening device 1610, which then cushions some of the forces and causesreactive stresses that push back upward through the dampening device1610 and the foot strapping component 1620. In real time motion,foot-securing component 1620 is in a constant upward and downward motionabout pivot point 1640, thereby cushioning the stresses normally felt onthe bottom side of a wearer's foot. Optionally, a cover 1615 may concealor protect dampening device 1610 from view and protect it from snow anddebris that may decrease its functional life.

Another exemplary embodiment of footwear having a dynamic foot supportplatform according to an embodiment of the present inventionincorporated within it is an ice skate 1601 shown in FIG. 16 b. Iceskate 1601 functions in a similar way as described with respect to skior snow boot 1600 in FIG. 16 a. Foot-securing component 1621 moves aboutpivoting point 1641 with respect to blade 1631 by relative lengthchanges of dampening device 1611. For sake of simplicity, ice skate 1600is shown having a dampening device 1611 that is visible because it hasno protective cover 1615. Such a cover 1615 may be secured betweenfoot-securing component 1621 and blade 1631 to protect dampening device1611 from debris.

In another exemplary embodiment of footwear incorporating a dynamic footplatform according to an embodiment of the present invention, an inlineskate or roller skate 1700 is shown in FIG. 17. Inline skate 1700 has afoot-securing component 1720 that is connected to both a dampeningdevice 1710 and a wheelbase 1730. Dampening device 1710 is alsoconnected to wheelbase 1730. Any relative motion of foot accommodatingcomponent 1720 with respect to wheelbase 1730 is possible by rotationabout pivot point 1740 caused by changes in the length of dampeningdevice 1710.

There are many advantages in footwear that incorporate the presentinvention over conventional static footwear. A user wearing footwearhaving a dynamic foot platform will not expose his or her feet torepeated static forces caused by a hard ground. Another advantage of thepresent invention is that it allows for motion of the foot itself withinthe footwear, such that the foot is bent and flexed during naturalwalking motion, promoting comfort and blood flow. Furthermore, userswearing high heel shoes incorporating foot support platforms accordingto the present invention will be able to wear such high heel shoes formore extended periods of time without feeling the discomfort typical ofhigh heel shoes. The frequency of broken heels also decreases becausethe stresses that are created during typical walking or running withshoes having high heels is dampened using a dampening device, thereforeresulting in less inconvenience and cost to the wearer from aninopportune broken heel. Finally, an adjustable tension in a dampeningdevice and/or pivoting hinge allows a user to specify the range ofmotion that is most comfortable in a footwear that incorporates such adynamic foot support platform. Many other advantages are evident thatrelate to comfort, safety, and fashion.

Although the above embodiments are described in a specific manner withspecific components, the present invention is not limited to suchconfigurations. For example, the above exemplary embodiments aredescribed using a dampening device that appears as a shock absorber,much like those used in a vehicle or bicycles. However, other types ofdampening devices are possible. If a shock absorber is used, it may bepre-determined to move a limited distance, such as, for example, in arange of 0.75 to 1.00 inches. The shock absorber may be manufacturedusing a metal that is best suited for its particular use. An exemplaryshock absorber that may be used with the present invention may be aconventional shock absorber, but which may have to be altered to fit thepresent fuiction. Various shock absorbers may be rated for groups ofdifferent weight users, such as, for example, “for 110 to 120 pounds”.In addition, adjustable shock absorbers can be used to accommodatedifferent wearers or to allow a wearer to “tune” to a comfortablesetting. Furthermore, more than one shock absorber may be used in givenfootwear, such as up to four shock absorbers. Various positions may beselected for each shock absorber, for example, up and down, backward orforward in relation to the footwear, or other suitable positions.Finally, the shock absorber may be air, oil, or spring reinforced. Othertypes are also possible.

Any footwear as described above, and all of its suitable components, maybe manufactured with carbon fiber using conventional manufacturingtechniques, such as, injection or vacuum molding. Such processes allowhollow solid shapes to be formed without seams and thicknessdiscrepancies. Furthermore, such processes provide a lightweight andrigid form. Other materials, such as urethane or plastic, may also beused to manufacture such footwear. Urethane or plastic may reduce theamount of tooling and overall production expenses. Use of certainspecialized materials, such as urethane, further reduces manufacturingcosts while still maintaining structural integrity because the overallnumber of components and manufacturing steps may be reduced. Forexample, a uniform body of urethane may be used to manufacturesubstantially the entire shoe support according to the presentinvention, including connectors and brackets, and further eliminatingthe need for structural inserts. Finally, the body portion of footwearthat accommodates a dynamic mechanism as described herein may have toendure stretching as a result of such motion without buckling up.Exemplary types of materials that may be used for such body portion maybe, for example, leather, rubber, hybrid materials, or other suitablematerials.

In describing representative embodiments of the invention, thespecification may have presented the method and/or process of theinvention as a particular sequence of steps. However, to the extent thatthe method or process does not rely on the particular order of steps setforth herein, the method or process should not be limited to theparticular sequence of steps described. As one of ordinary skill in theart would appreciate, other sequences of steps may be possible.Therefore, the particular order of the steps set forth in thespecification should not be construed as limitations on the claims. Inaddition, the claims directed to the method and/or process of theinvention should not be limited to the performance of their steps in theorder written, and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate thatthe sequences may be varied and still remain within the spirit and scopeof the invention.

The foregoing disclosure of the embodiments of the invention has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description. It is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise formsdisclosed. Many variations and modifications of the embodimentsdescribed herein will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art inlight of the above disclosure. The scope of the invention is to bedefined only by the claims appended hereto, and by their equivalents.

1. A dynamic foot support device comprising: a heel support shelf forsupporting a heel portion of a foot; a foot support shelf for supportinga distal portion of a foot; and a dampening device in communication withthe heel support shelf and the foot support shelf; wherein the dampeningdevice allows a relative motion of the heel support shelf with respectto the foot support shelf when a force is applied to the heel supportshelf.
 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a pivoting jointconnecting the heel support shelf and the foot support shelf, whereinthe relative motion of the heel support shelf with respect to the footsupport shelf occurs in an arc about the pivoting joint.
 3. The deviceof claim 2, further comprising: a layer of protective materialpositioned on the pivoting joint, wherein the layer of protectivematerials protects a foot from motion of the pivoting joint.
 4. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising: an internal support layer locatedinside the heel support shelf, wherein the internal support layerprovides structural support to the heel support shelf.
 5. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the relative motion of the heel support shelf may beadjusted with respect to the foot support shelf.
 6. The device of claim1, wherein the relative position of the heel support shelf may bereversibly secured with respect to the foot support shelf.
 7. The deviceof claim 1, further comprising: connectors at two ends of the dampeningdevice that connect the dampening device to the heel support shelf andthe foot support shelf; wherein the connectors allow the dampeningdevice to be replaced by a wearer.
 8. A device for dynamic foot support,the device comprising: a heel support shelf for supporting a heelportion of a foot; a foot support shelf for supporting a foot; and meansfor allowing motion of the heel support shelf with respect to the footsupport shelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf.
 9. Thedevice of claim 8, wherein the means for allowing motion comprises apivoting joint connecting the heel support shelf and the foot supportshelf, wherein the pivoting joint allows relative motion of the heelsupport shelf with respect to the foot support shelf in an arc about thepivoting joint.
 10. The device of claim 9, further comprising a layer ofprotective material positioned on the pivoting joint; wherein the layerof protective materials protects a foot from motion of the pivotingjoint.
 11. The device of claim 8, further comprising, an internalsupport layer located inside the heel support shelf, wherein theinternal support layer provides structural support to the heel supportshelf.
 12. The device of claim 8, wherein the relative motion of theheel support shelf may be adjusted with respect to the foot supportshelf.
 13. The device of claim 1, wherein the relative position of theheel support shelf may be reversibly secured with respect to the footsupport shelf.
 14. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for allowingmotion is replaceable by a wearer.
 15. A system for dynamic footsupport, the system comprising: a footwear for accommodating a foot; anda dynamic foot support platform incorporated within the footwear,wherein the dynamic foot support platform includes a heel support shelffor supporting a heel portion of a foot; a foot support shelf forsupporting a foot; and a dampening device in communication with the heelsupport shelf and the foot support shelf; wherein the dampening deviceallows relative motion of the heel support shelf to the foot supportshelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf.
 16. The systemof claim 15, further comprising a pivoting joint connecting the heelsupport shelf and the foot support shelf, wherein the pivoting jointallows relative motion of the heel support shelf with respect to thefoot support shelf in an arc about the pivoting joint.
 17. The system ofclaim 16, further comprising a layer of protective material positionedon the pivoting joint, wherein the layer of protective materialsprotects a foot from motion of the pivoting joint.
 18. The system ofclaim 15, further comprising an internal support layer located insidethe heel support shelf, wherein the internal support layer providesstructural support to the heel support shelf.
 19. The system of claim15, wherein the relative motion of the heel support shelf may beadjusted with respect to the foot support shelf.
 20. The system of claim15, wherein the relative position of the heel support shelf may bereversibly secured with respect to the foot support shelf.